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Catch and Release Derby

New in 2009, the Division of Marine Fisheries added a catch and release category to our longstanding and popular Massachusetts Saltwater Fishing Derby. While traditionally the derby has required the harvest and weigh-in of fish, this new format will allow catch and release oriented anglers a chance to showcase their angling skills too.

There will be six eligible species to start: bluefish, cod, false albacore, fluke, striped bass and winter flounder. Anglers must catch a fish that meets or exceeds a minimum qualifying length in order to be considered for a species specific certificate. Anglers can receive one certificate per species per year for their largest catches.

Special annual awards will be given out to anglers submitting the largest fish for each of the six eligible species. Fisherman skilled enough to catch four different species meeting the minimum length requirement will be in the running for a “Grand Slam” Award. Only one “Grand Slam” award will be given out per year for the maximum total cumulative length of any of four species entered.

Fish should be measured on a measuring device to the nearest half inch, and a clearly discernable picture taken of both the measuring device and the fish, indicating total length. Derby affidavits and pictures should be sent to our South Shore Office in New Bedford , attention John Boardman.

Like our traditional weigh-in derby entries from fish caught January 1st to November 30th are eligible.